saam1 bat1 gun2三不管
Definition
Uncontrolled and outside of any legal jurisdiction, originally referring to the Kowloon Walled City.
How it's used
Originally referring specifically to the Kowloon Walled City, this term describes a unique historical anomaly where neither the British colonial administration nor the Chinese government exercised effective control. It carries a strong connotation of lawlessness, crime, and a lack of basic infrastructure. While it is now mostly used in historical contexts, it can occasionally be used metaphorically to describe any neglected or chaotic area that seems to fall outside of standard regulations.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this term to describe just any dangerous neighborhood or high-crime area. It specifically implies a vacuum of political or legal authority, not just a lack of police presence.
Grammar color guide
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
